Devon Holiday Guide

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South West Coast Path National Trail

The South West Coast Path National Trail is one of a family of 15 National Trails in England and Wales and offers 630 continuous miles (1014km) of superb coastal walking including North Devon. The South West Coast Path is the best way to enjoy the wonderful coastal scenery, wildlife and heritage in the area. It follows the coastline of the South West peninsula from Minehead in Somerset to the entrance of Poole Harbour in Dorset. For 74% of its length, it journeys through protected landscapes (five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and one National Park). It provides a route along the entire length of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and around the coastline of the North Devon Biosphere Reserve.



The South West Coast Path is a vital part of the life of south west England. It is a key attraction for visitors as well as the residents of the four south-western counties and is important for tourism and the wider economy. The South Devon section of the Coast Path features 22 miles of South West Coast Path through Torbay alone. The terrain along the South West Coast Path varies immensely - sometimes over quite short distances. As well as long-distance walks, The South West Coast Path is just as good for short walks and gentle strolls which are perfect for a half-day walk with family and friends followed by a picnic or pub lunch.

As well as following the Countryside Code, when you are walking the South West Coast Path remember:

• Staying safe is your own responsibility – please look after yourself and other members of your group.
• Let someone know where you are going and what time you are likely to be back – mobile phone reception is patchy on the coast
• Take something to eat and drink
• Protect yourself from the sun – sea breezes can hide its strength
• Informal paths leading to beaches can be dangerous and are best avoided
• If you are crossing a beach, make sure you know the tide times so you won’t be cut off

Keep to the path and stay away from cliff edges – please follow advisory signs and waymarks.

• Keep back from cliff edges – a slip or trip could be fatal
• Remember that some cliffs overhang or are unstable

Take special care of children and dogs – please look after them at all times.

• Keep your dog under close control
• Children and dogs may not see potential dangers – such as cliff edges – especially if they are excited
• Do not disturb farm animals or wildlife – walk around cattle not between them, especially if they have calves
• Cattle may react aggressively to dogs – if this happens, let your dog off the lead

Dress sensibly for the terrain and weather – wear suitable clothing and footwear and be ready for possible changes in the weather.

• Check the weather forecast before you set out
• On the coast, mist, fog and high winds are more likely and can be especially dangerous
• Wear suitable footwear
• Take waterproofs and extra clothing, especially in cold weather

Stay within your fitness level – some sections of the Coast Path can be strenuous and/or remote.

• Plan a walk that suits your fitness level
• Find out about the section you plan to walk
• Turn back if the walk is too strenuous for anyone in your group
• Be aware that the surface of the Coast Path varies and will generally be more natural and more uneven away from car parks, towns and villages.
• Remember that in remote areas or at quiet times you may not see another person for some time if you are in difficulties
  
  In an emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
• Learn to read a map to be able to accurately report your position – visit www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/oswebsite/mapshop